Crown keeps Stanley ties

Accrington fans Will and Emma Gilmartin will take over The Crown pub independently of the football club but it will keep its close ties with Stanley.

The club have held the lease on The Crown, on Whalley Road, since former chairman and owner Eric Whalley was still at the helm.

However, landlords Emma and Will will now run the pub direct from Punch Taverns from November 7th – although they will continue to work on match days at the Wham Stadium.

Stanley chief executive David Burgess said: “An improved agreement has been completed between the landlords, Punch Taverns and Will and Emma Gilmartin to take over the pub, which will ensure the pub remains within the Stanley family.

“Will and Emma will continue to work with the club on home match days with the catering and bar facilities within The Wham Stadium.

“The club are delighted that Will and Emma have decided to take on the lease and I’m sure they will continue to deliver a first class service to all home and away supporters.”